Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutpc_07 24 2014 LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION PLANNING – REZONING – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING MINUTE RECORD JULY 24, 2014 4:00 P.M. I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum A Quorum was present being ten (10) in number. II. Members Present: Jennifer Martinez Belt Craig Berry Tom Brock Buelah Bynum Keith Cox Janet Dillon Keith Fountain Bill May Obray Nunnley, Jr. Rebecca Finney Members Absent: Alan Bubbus City Attorney: Cindy Dawson III. Approval of the Minutes of the June 12, 2014 Meeting of the Little Rock Planning Commission. The Minutes were approved as presented. LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION PLANNING – REZONING – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING AGENDA JULY 24, 2014 4:00 P.M. I. Roll Call and Finding of a Quorum II. Approval of the Minutes of the June 12, 2014 Meeting of the Little Rock Planning Commission III. Presentation of the Consent Agenda IV. Presentation of the Hearing Items V. Citizen Communication FOR YOUR INFORMATION: Next Planning and Rezoning Meeting Dates: Filing Date: July 28, 2014 Subdivision Committee Meeting: August 13, 2014 Planning Commission Meeting: September 4, 2014 LITTLE ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION PLANNING – REZONING – CONDITIONAL USE HEARING JULY 24, 2014 4:00 P.M. I. OLD BUSINESS: Item Number: File Number: Title: A. G-23-446 Alley – Right-of-Way Abandonment Block bounded by West 26th, West 27th, Allis and Brown Streets B. Z-3276-G Sustainable Properties, LLC – Office/Warehouse Conditional Use Permit 125 Gamble Road C. Z-6923-B Pulaski Heights Presbyterian Church Day Care and Private School – Conditional Use Permit 4401 Woodlawn Drive D. Z-8946 Bowers Street Duplexes (3) – Conditional Use Permit 4408 – 4420 Bowers Street E. LA-0060 South Shackleford Road Advanced Grading Variance, located at the East side of S. Shackleford Road across from Clearwater Drive. II. NEW BUSINESS: Item Number: File Number: Title: 1. G-23-448 West 13th Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment Between Pine and Cedar Streets 2. Z-8957 Rezoning from R-2 to MF-24 Southeast corner of Shackleford Road and West 36th Street Agenda, Page Two II. NEW BUSINESS: (CONTINUED) Item Number: File Number: Title: 3. Z-7093-A Holy Temple COGIC parking lot – Conditional Use Permit East side of 1300 Block of Pulaski Street Lots 3 and 4, Block 312, Original City 4. Z-8950 Riggin Multi-sectional Manufactured Home Accessory Dwelling – Conditional Use Permit 7417 Mabelvale Cut-Off 5. MSP14-04 Master Streets Plan Amendment – Bicycle Plan Map Update (adding various Class I, Class II, and Class III routes to the map) 6. LU14-01 Northwest Land Use Plan Amendment amending various locations in the area West of I-430 and North of Chenal Parkway/Kanis Road July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: A FILE NO.: G-23-446 Name: Alley – Right-of-Way Abandonment Location: Block bounded by West 26th, West 27th, Allis and Brown Streets Owner/Applicant: Aaron D. Agnew, Sr. Request: To abandon the north 99 feet of the 20 foot wide (north/south) alley right-of-way located within block bounded by West 26th, West 27th, Allis and Brown Streets (unplatted block). Purpose: To fence a portion of the alley right-of-way to control access. STAFF REVIEW: A. Public Need for this Right-of-Way: As noted in paragraph G., none of the utility companies object to the abandonment request. Several of the utilities request to retain the entire area of abandonment as a utility easement. The Public Works Comment is as follows: 1. Drainage easement should be maintained in the alley to convey storm water from adjacent property. B. Master Street Plan: There are no Master Street Plan issues associated with this abandonment request, as the right-of-way is not classified as a Collector Street or higher. C. Characteristics of Right-of-Way Terrain: The alley right-of-way is currently grass covered with some areas of gravel. The alley is overgrown in a few spots. D. Development Potential: After abandonment, the applicant plans to fence off the north 99 feet of the alley right-of-way to control access. The south portion of the alley will remain in its current condition. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-446 2 E. Neighborhood and Land Use Effect: There are five (5) single family residences within the west half of the block. Two (2) of the residences are vacant and boarded. There are four (4) single family residences within the east half of the block. Commercial zoning and uses are located to the south along West Roosevelt Road. R-3 zoning and residences are located within the blocks to the north, east and west. F. Neighborhood Position: The five (5) other property owners within this block and the Love and Goodwill Neighborhood Associations were notified of the abandonment request. As of this writing, staff knows of no objectors to the abandonment request. G. Effect on Public Services or Utilities: Wastewater: No objection to abandonment. Alley right-of-way must be retained as an easement for existing Little Rock Waste Water sewer main. Entergy: Entergy has no objection to abandonment and closure of the northern part of the alley between 26th and 27th Streets and between Brown and Allis Streets in Little Rock as long as the following conditions are met: 1. Entergy is requested and reimbursed to relocate its facilities in that portion of the alley. This relocation will require the removal of overhead primary facilities in the alley and installation of new primary facilities to re-feed customers in the area as discussed with you on 01/23/14 by Brad Vance and Chris Minner of Entergy. 2. Arrangements are made by you or your designee to relocate cable TV and/or telephone attachments to Entergy’s poles in the same area. Entergy cannot do any relocation work until this is accomplished. Entergy will allow closure of the northern part of this alley as long as Entergy retains an easement and vehicular access to its remaining facilities currently contained in the southern portion of the alley as this line provides service to the remaining residents on both sides of the alley. Centerpoint Energy: No objection to abandonment. AT&T (SBC): No objection to abandonment. Retain area of abandonment as a utility easement for existing facilities. Water: No objection to abandonment. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-446 3 H. Reversionary Rights: An abstract company was able to find no reversionary rights of record. I. Public Welfare and Safety Issues: Abandoning this right-of-way will have no adverse impact on the public welfare and safety. The Little Rock Fire Department has reviewed and approved the abandonment request. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 21, 2014) Aaron Agnew was present, representing the application. Staff described the proposed alley abandonment request. The condition of the alley and its proposed use after abandonment were discussed. The utility comments were briefly discussed. After the discussion, the Committee forwarded the application to the full Commission for resolution. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the request to abandon the north 99 feet of the 20 foot wide (north/south) alley right-of-way located within the unplatted block bounded by West 26th, West 27th, Allis and Brown Streets, subject to the entire area of abandonment being retained as a utility and drainage easement. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 12, 2014) The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had not submitted signatures from all of the property owners within the block and the item needed to be deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Aaron D. Agnew, Sr. was present, representing the application. There was one (1) person present with concerns. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of approval, with condition. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: A (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-446 4 Aaron Agnew addressed the Commission in support of the application. He deferred his time to hear from the person with concerns. Savoy Wiley addressed the Commission with concerns. He explained that the alley right-of-way had been used by utility companies in the past. He noted that he had no problem with Mr. Agnew abandoning only that portion of the alley right-of-way adjacent to his property. Mr. Agnew explained that only the portion of the alley right-of-way adjacent to his property would be abandoned. He noted that he wished to construct one (1) single family home on his overall property. There was a motion to approve the abandonment request, as recommended by staff. The motion passed by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. The application was approved. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: B FILE NO.: Z-3276-G NAME: Sustainable Properties, LLC Office/Warehouse – Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 125 Gamble Road OWNER/APPLICANT: Sustainable Properties, LLC/Matt Bell PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the use of this O-3 and C-3 zoned building and site for an office/warehouse use. 1. SITE LOCATION: The site is located on east side of Gamble Road, one property south of West Markham Street. 2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD: The site is located in an area of mixed zoning and uses. The building has been used for C-4 type uses (enclosed) for many years. The applicant proposes to utilize the building for an enclosed office – warehouse use. Surrounding uses include a variety of office and commercial uses as well as residential uses of varying density. Allowing the proposed enclosed use should not affect the site’s continued compatibility with the neighborhood. Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site and the Gibralter Heights Neighborhood Association. 3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING: The site contains a 6,000 square foot office – warehouse building. There is paved and striped parking for 37 vehicles. Access to the site is via a single driveway off of Gamble Road. The parking lot is located on the O-3 and C-3 zoned portion of the site. The parking appears to be sufficient for the use. 4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS: Site plan must comply with the City’s landscape and buffer ordinance requirements. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3276-G 2 All vehicular use areas which were in existence prior to the effective date of the Landscape Ordinance may continue as non-conforming until such time a building permit is issued to rehabilitate a structure on the property exceeding (50) percent of current replacement cost of the structure. At such time (50) percent of the existing vehicular use area shall be brought into compliance and shall continue to full compliance on a graduated scale based on the percentage of rehabilitation cost. An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1) acre or larger. For developments of less than one (1) acre a there shall be a water source within seventy-five (75) feet of the plants to be irrigated. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger. All landscaped materials are to be in good shape. Repair and replace damaged or missing plant materials. Dumpsters are to be enclosed to comply with Code requirements. 5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: 1. Gamble Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a collector street. A dedication of right-of-way thirty (30) feet from centerline will be required. Provide a right-of-way centerline on the survey to determine if the existing right-of-way is sufficient. 2. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-of-way prior to occupancy. 3. If the driveway is proposed to be gated or chained in the future, the obstruction can be located no closer than twenty (20) feet from the back of curb of Gamble Road. 6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS: Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Entergy: Approved as submitted. Entergy has no objection to this proposal. Contact Entergy should service requirements change for the building. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3276-G 3 Centerpoint Energy: No comment received. AT&T (SBC): No comment received. Water: No Objection. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service must be met. If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated, contact Central Arkansas Water. That work would be done at the expense of the developer. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water service is required. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the water meter. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all connections including metered connections off the private fire system. The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the Developer’s expense. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project. Fire Department: Approved as submitted. Building Codes Comment: Project is subject to full commercial plan review approval prior to issuance of a building permit. For information on submittal requirements and the review process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at (501) 371-4724; crichey@littlerock.org or Mark Alderfer at (501) 371-4875; malderfer@littlerock.org. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3276-G 4 County Planning: No Comments. CATA: The site is not located on a CATA bus route. A route is located nearby to the east, at Markham and Chenal. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 21, 2014) Matt Bell was present presenting the application. Staff presented the item and noted some additional information was needed on the proposed use. The applicant was asked to provide days and hours of operation and a signage plan. Staff commented that the dumpsters needed to be screened and the perimeter site fencing repaired as needed. Landscape and Public Works Comments were discussed. The applicant was asked to provide a survey indicating the right-of-way centerline. The Committee determined there were no other issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. STAFF ANALYSIS: The C-3 and O-3 zoned, one acre tract located at 125 Gamble Road is occupied by a one-story, metal and frame building and an asphalt and paved parking lot. The building and some of the parking is located on the C-3 zoned portion of the site. The majority of the parking lot is located on the O-3 zoned portion. The site has a history of use by C-4 type uses including a landscape maintenance company and an automobile detail shop. Those uses were approved through the conditional use permit process in the 1990s. The applicant is now requesting approval of a CUP to allow the site to be occupied by an office – warehouse use. The specific proposed tenant is Home Energy Rx, a home energy evaluation company and home energy retrofitting contractor for Entergy. The applicant submitted responses to most of the issues raised at Subdivision Committee. Signage will comply with that allowed in office and institutional zones. The business employees 35 full-time persons. Ten (10) employees work on site and 25 are field technicians. All materials are stored in the warehouse and there is no outside storage. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. No site lighting is proposed. Dumpster screening will be installed to comply with code requirements. A 6-foot tall wood privacy fence is located along the north, south and east perimeters of the site. The applicant states any needed repairs will be made to the fence. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: B (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-3276-G 5 To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues. The plat – bill of assurance for Hilldale does not address use issues. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the requested CUP subject to compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the agenda staff report. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 12, 2014) The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had failed to correctly complete the notice requirement and the item needed to be deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) The applicants were present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: C FILE NO.: Z-6923-B NAME: Pulaski Heights Presbyterian Church Day Care and Private School – Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 4401 Woodlawn Drive OWNER/APPLICANT: Pulaski Heights Presbyterian Church PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for the expansion of a previously approved day care and to allow for the addition of a small private school to this R-2 zoned church site. 1. SITE LOCATION: The site is located on the south side of Woodlawn Drive, between Walnut and Ash Streets. 2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD: The church has been a part of the neighborhood for decades. Surrounding uses are primarily single family homes on typical, urban lots. The Hillcrest Commercial district is located one block to the north, along Kavanaugh. Allowing the proposed increase in enrollment for the previously approved day care and the addition of the small private school to this existing, institutional site should not affect the church’s continued compatibility with the neighborhood. Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site and the Hillcrest Neighborhood Association. 3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING: Total enrollment for the day care (6 weeks to 6 years old) is 58 children with 13 employees; requiring 18 parking spaces. The elementary school will have a maximum enrollment of 20 students in grades 1 thru 6 with 6 employees. Assuming one classroom per grade, the parking requirement is 12 parking spaces. Staff will park in the 25 space parking lot located across Walnut Street, freeing up the 20 space parking lot next to the church buildings for parents and for drop-off/pickup. Parents will enter the site from Ash Street and exit onto Woodlawn. During the drop-off and pickup times, there will be an attendant in the parking lot to help direct traffic flow. On street parking is available for other visitors to the church during the week. The Hillcrest Design Overlay District allows the use of on-street parking to meet parking requirements. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6923-B 2 4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS: No Comments. 5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: 1. Is the applicant proposing a day care, afterschool care, and elementary school facility? Provide the child care and school hours? Provide times children are dropped off and picked up? Provide location of staff parking. 2. Vehicle stacking is not allowed on city streets. Provide a traffic circulation plan showing parking spaces, drop off/pickup areas, stacking areas, and vehicles circulation. Provide pavements widths and stack lengths. Will traffic circulation be directed by staff on site during start and dismissal times? Staggered start and dismissal times maybe needed. 6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS: Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Entergy: Approved as submitted. Entergy has no objection to this proposal. Centerpoint Energy: No comment received. AT&T (SBC): No comment received. Water: No objection. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service must be met. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the water meter. If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated, contact Central Arkansas Water. That work would be done at the expense of the developer. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water service is required. The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the Developer’s expense. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6923-B 3 Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project. Fire Department: Approved as submitted. Place Fire hydrants per Code, maintain access, Fire sprinkler system. Building Codes Comment: Project is a change in occupancy and is therefore subject to current building code requirements. Review and approval is required by Building Codes Division before occupancy takes place. For information on submittal requirements and the review process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at (501) 371-4724; crichey@littlerock.org or Mark Alderfer at (501) 371-4875; malderfer@littlerock.org. County Planning: No Comments. CATA: Approved as submitted. Served by CATA Bus Route # 8 off of Lee Avenue and Route # 1 off Kavanaugh. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 21, 2014) The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional information was needed. The applicants were asked to provide the hours of operation of the day care and the school. In response to a question from staff, the applicants stated no additional signage was requested beyond that approved on September 19, 2013. Public Works Comments were discussed. The applicants were asked to provide a traffic circulation plan showing drop-off/pickup areas, stacking areas and vehicle circulation. Staff noted that vehicle stacking on public streets was not permitted. The applicants stated employees would park in the lot across Walnut Street, freeing up to the on-site parking lot for use by the parents for parking and drop-off/pickup. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6923-B 4 The applicants were advised to respond to staff issues by Wednesday, May 28, 2014. The Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission. STAFF ANALYSIS: Pulaski Heights Presbyterian Church occupies the north half of the R-2 zoned block bounded by Woodlawn, Walnut, Ash and Lee. The main building is located on the east half of the block. The west half contain three smaller buildings and church parking lot. An additional parking lot is located across Walnut Street to the east. On October 26, 2000, a CUP was approved to allow a day care in the church. It was not done and that approval expired. On September 29, 2013, a CUP was approved to allow a day care for children ages 18 months to 5 years. The maximum capacity approved was 36 children with 8 employees. The day care was approved to be located in classroom space in the main church building. Approved days and hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. The playground is “tucked” into the “U-shaped” main building area. Operation of the day care is in partnership with Village Montessori. The church is now requesting a revision to the CUP to allow for an expansion of the day care and the addition of a small private school; continuing the partnership with Village Montessori. The day care is proposed to expand to include infants 6 weeks to 18 month with a maximum enrollment of 22 children with 5 employees. The private school is proposed to be only for elementary ages 1 to 6th grade with a maximum enrollment of 20 students total with 6 employees. The elementary school is proposed to be located in the main church building alongside the previously approved day care. The infant care program is proposed to be located in the structure located on the northwest corner of the church property. Days and hours of operation for the infant care are the same as the previously approved day care; Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. The elementary school will operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. with after school care from 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Staff will utilize the parking lot located across Walnut Street, east of the church. The on-site parking will be utilized for parking by parents and for drop-off/pickup. Parents will enter the site from Ash Street and exit onto Woodlawn. During the drop-off and pickup times, there will be an attendant in the parking lot to help direct traffic flow. With the staff taken out of the equation, the parking requirement for the day care and school is a total of 11 spaces (1 space for every 10 children in the day care and 1 space per classroom in the elementary school). To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues. The expansion of the day care and addition of the elementary, with the small numbers proposed, appears to be a reasonable use on this established institutional site. The 1921 plat – bill of assurance does not address use issues. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: C (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-6923-B 5 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the revised CUP subject to compliance with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the comments in Sections 5 and 6 of the agenda staff report. 2. Operation of the day care and private school, including parking and drop-off/pickup, is to be as proposed and described in the staff analysis. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 12, 2014) The applicant was not present. There were no objectors present. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had failed to correctly complete the notice requirement and the item needed to be deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and deferred to the July 24, 2014 agenda by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) The applicants were present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D FILE NO.: Z-8946 NAME: Bowers Street Duplexes (3) – Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 4408 – 4420 Bowers Street OWNER/APPLICANT: Travoris Akins and Charles Clifton/Stanley Phillips PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for construction of three (3) duplex residential structures on these vacant, R-3 zoned, 3 ½ lots. 1. SITE LOCATION: The site is located on the west side of Bowers Street, south of West 44th Street. 2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD: Surrounding properties are zoned and occupied by single family residences. The two homes directly north of the site are relatively new. Although staff typically is supportive of the slight increase in density proposed by duplex development, the issue of compatibility must be considered. The development as proposed has paved front yard areas. Additionally, the orientation of the northern units is toward each other rather than to the street as is typical in the neighborhood. Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site and the John Barrow and West Heights Place Neighborhood Associations. 3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING: Each duplex requires 1 ½ parking spaces per unit (3 total for each duplex structure). The applicant is proposing a shared driveway and 6 parking spaces for the northern 2 duplexes (units 1-4). The southern duplex (units 5 and 6) has 6 parking spaces. The parking is located in front of the dwellings. The parking cannot be placed behind the dwellings due to a concrete drainage ditch that crosses the properties. The applicant has proposed to plant trees on the north, south and street perimeters of the parking area and to install shrubbery between the parking and the buildings to help soften the effect of having the parking in the front yard. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 2 4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS: No Comments. 5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: 1. Bowers Street is classified on the Master Street Plan as a residential street. A dedication of right-of-way twenty-five (25) feet from centerline will be required. 2. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-of-way prior to occupancy. 3. All driveways shall have concrete aprons per City Ordinance. 6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS: Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Entergy: Entergy does not object to the proposal. Electrical facilities run along Bowers Street and are available to serve the duplexes. Contact Entergy well in advance so that service requirements, easements and construction schedules can be worked out. Centerpoint Energy: No comment received. AT&T (SBC): No comment received. Water: No Objection. All Central Arkansas Water requirements in effect at the time of request for water service must be met. If there are facilities that need to be adjusted and/or relocated, contact Central Arkansas Water. That work would be done at the expense of the developer. Contact Central Arkansas Water if additional fire protection or metered water service is required. Contact Central Arkansas Water regarding the size and location of the water meter. A Capital Investment Charge based on the size of meter connection(s) will apply to this project in addition to normal charges. This fee will apply to all connections including metered connections off the private fire system. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 3 The Little Rock Fire Department needs to evaluate this site to determine whether additional public and/or private fire hydrant(s) will be required. If additional fire hydrant(s) are required, they will be installed at the Developer’s expense. Due to the nature of this facility, installation of an approved reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly (RPZ) is required on the domestic water service. This assembly must be installed prior to the first point of use. Central Arkansas Water (CAW) requires that upon installation of the RPZA, successful tests of the assembly must be completed by a Certified Assembly Tester licensed by the State of Arkansas and approved by CAW. The test results must be sent to CAW’s Cross Connection Section within ten days of installation and annually thereafter. Contact the Cross Connection Section at 377-1226 if you would like to discuss backflow prevention requirements for this project. Fire Department: Place Fire hydrants per Code and maintain access. Building Codes Comment: Project is subject to all current residential code requirements. Fire Separation required. For information on submittal requirements and the review process, contact a commercial plans examiner: Curtis Richey at (501) 371-4724; crichey@littlerock.org Mark Alderfer at (501) 371-4875; malderfer@littlerock.org County Planning: No Comments. CATA: Approved as submitted. Site is less than one-fourth mile from Route # 9 and less than one-half mile from Route # 14. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (MAY 21, 2014) The applicant, Stanley Phillips, was present. Staff presented the item and expressed concerns about the proposed parking design and the orientation of the buildings. Mr. Phillips stated it was the same layout previously approved for duplexes he recently constructed at 34th and Longcoy. Staff expressed concern that the project as proposed was more of a multifamily development in appearance and not similar to the existing single family development in the neighborhood. He stated the parking could not be put behind the buildings because a concrete-line drainage ditch crossed the property, limiting the depth of buildable area. Staff suggested he make some attempt to provide more green space at the front of the lots. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 4 Public Works Comments were noted. Staff suggested he verify the location of the ditch as it appeared to be further back on the property than what was shown on the survey. Mr. Phillips presented letters of support from two area churches and one neighborhood resident. He stated he also had support from the John Barrow Neighborhood Association. The applicant was advised to submit responses to staff issues by Wednesday, May 28, 2014. The Committee forwarded the item to the full Commission. STAFF ANALYSIS: The applicant, Stanley Phillips, is requesting approval of a conditional use permit to allow for the construction of 3 duplex structures (6 units total) on the vacant, R-3 zoned, 3 ½ lots located at 4408 – 4420 Bowers Street. The structures are proposed to be 1 story in height, built of wood frame construction with vinyl siding and a pitched, shingled roof. The northern two duplexes (units 1-4) are designed to face each other onto a common courtyard. Units 1-4 are proposed to contain 2 bedrooms and 1 ½ baths. The southern duplex (units 5 and 6) faces the street. These units contain 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. A common driveway provides access to 6 parking spaces for units 1-4. A separate driveway provides access to 6 parking spaces for units 5 and 6. In both cases, the parking spaces are parallel to the street, in the front yard area. The parking cannot be placed in the rear yard because a concrete-lined drainage ditch effectively cuts off the rear portion of the properties. Placing the parking behind the buildings and bringing the buildings forward on the lots would cause the buildings to be closer to the street than other homes in the neighborhood. To help mitigate the visual effect of having the parking in the front yard, the applicant has proposed to plant trees along the north, south and street perimeters of the parking area. Shrubbery is proposed to be placed between the buildings and the parking. Staff is not able to support the development as proposed. The paving of the front yards creates an appearance that is not compatible with the existing single family residential neighborhood. Other homes surrounding the site have typical front lawn areas and a single-wide or double-wide driveway perpendicular to the street. Additionally, the orientation of the two northern duplex structures is such that it creates more of a “multifamily complex” appearance rather than having the front façade face the street as is typical in the neighborhood. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 5 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends denial of the application. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 12, 2014) The applicants were present. There were several persons present, both in opposition and in support. Several letters of opposition and support has been received by staff and forwarded to the Commission. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of denial. Stanley Phillips, the applicant, addressed the Commission. He stated he had done several similar developments in the John Barrow Community. He said the building orientation and parking design with this project was similar to one that he had recently built in the neighborhood. Mr. Stanley stated the parking design worked and had created no problems. He made note of the letter of support from the church across the street. Raymond Rader, of 4424 Bowers Street, spoke in opposition. He stated the neighborhood was opposed to duplexes and asked the Commission to keep the property single family. He voiced his concerns about the development being too dense for the neighborhood. He said the duplexes would be occupied by renters who would not be as stable residents of the neighborhood as home owners would be. Delisa Rader, of 4424 Bowers Street, also spoke in opposition. She voiced her opposition to the parking plan, with the front yards being paved. She stated the angle of the parking was such that car lights would be shining into her home. Ruth Bell, of the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County, spoke in opposition to the plan. She stated the League supported increased density to allow duplexes but the development must be compatible with the neighborhood. She stated the proposed parking design was not compatible with the neighborhood. Ms. Bell asked the Commission to reject the proposal. Carolyn Heitman, President of the John Barrow Neighborhood Association, spoke in support of the proposal. She stated the Association had worked with Mr. Phillips on past proposals and had had no problems with any of the projects he had built in the neighborhood. She said it not appropriate to put a negative stereotype on renters. Ms. Heitman said the Association was supportive and would rather see the parking as proposed rather than have additional parking in the street. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 6 Beulah Scott, of 4504 Foster Street, spoke in opposition. She said the proposal would result in too many families in a small area. Ms. Scott stated the proposed duplexes would not fit in with the neighborhood. Becky Epperson, of 4511 Bowers Street, stated she also was concerned about the number of people who would be living on the site, the parking design and the possible effect on property values. Kwendeche, Mr. Phillips’ architect, stated they had tried to mitigate the visual impact of the parking by proposing to install trees around the site and by adding landscaping between the parking and the buildings. He said the buildings would appear as single family when viewed from the street, not multifamily. He stated the aesthetics of the site were appropriate for the neighborhood. Commissioner Berry commented that it was appropriate to have a mixture of housing types and density in a neighborhood. He stated he saw design problems with this proposal and he was opposed to the current application design. Commissioner Nunnley stated he respected what Mr. Phillips had done in the neighborhood. He stated his concern was related to the proposed density and design of this project. Mr. Phillips stated there were constraints on the site due to the drainage ditch which bisected the property and he could not put the parking in the rear. He stated he could reduce the density to two duplexes and redesign the parking to be more compatible with the neighborhood. Chairman Fountain asked for staff’s opinion on Mr. Phillips’ new proposal. Dana Carney, of the Planning Staff, responded that staff was typically supportive of increased density in the developed urban areas of the City. He stated design was an important component, including building orientation and parking design. Mr. Carney stated staff would like to see a revised plan before making additional comments. In response to a question from Chairman Fountain, Mr. Rader stated the neighborhood wanted the properties to remain single family and they did not support any duplexes. Chairman Fountain stated single family residences could be occupied by renters if that was the neighborhood’s objection. Mr. Rader responded that renters would be okay as long as they are in single family residences. He stated deferring the item to make the changes Mr. Phillips spoke of would make no difference as the neighborhood was opposed to duplexes. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 7 Chairman Fountain asked Mr. Phillips if he wished to defer the item to make changes. Mr. Phillips responded that he did. A motion was made to defer the item to the July 24, 2014 agenda. The motion was approved by a vote of 9 ayes, 0 noes and 2 absent. STAFF UPDATE: In response to issues raised at the June 12, 2014 Commission meeting, Mr. Phillips has amended his application. The proposal now consists of two (2) duplex structures (4 units total) to be built on the 3 ½ lot site. The structures are now oriented so that the front of each unit faces Bowers Street. A single driveway will provide access to the site. A total of eight (8) parking spaces will be located perpendicular to the driveway, parallel to the street. This arrangement provides two (2) parking spaces per dwelling unit. Staff believes this is reasonable since the units each contain three (3) bedrooms. The rear 1/3 ± of the site will not be developed. The existing concrete drainage ditch separates that portion of the site from the developed area on the east 2/3 ± of the site. A new 4 foot tall chain link fence will be placed on the east side of the concrete ditch. A 6 foot tall opaque wood fence will be placed on the north and south perimeters of the site, from the front property line back to the new chain link fence. The applicant has proposed to plant 34, 2 inch caliper trees on the north, south and east perimeters of the site and between the buildings. Areas of shrubbery will be planted in front of each building. The 3 ½ lots will replatted into two lots. The lots will exceed the minimum standards of the R-3 district and the proposed building setbacks will meet or exceed the R-3 district minimums. Each dwelling unit will contain 1,386 ± square feet in a single story structure. Staff believes the applicant has done a good job of responding to the site-design issues raised at the previous meeting. Due to the constraints on the site created by the concrete ditch, the options are limited for parking design. Staff is supportive of the proposal, as amended. On July 2, 2014, the item was reviewed by the Subdivision Committee. The committee also felt the applicant had addressed many of the issues previously raised by the Commission. REVISED STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the revised CUP application subject to compliance with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 5 and 6 of the agenda staff report. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 8 2. The properties are to be replatted into two (2) lots prior to submittal for building permit. 3. The six foot tall opaque wood fence on the north and south perimeters is to be built with the finished side facing out. 4. Thirty-four (34) two (2) inch caliper trees are to be planted on the site as indicated on the site plan. 5. The driveway and parking are to be concrete or asphalt paved. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Stanley Phillips was present, representing the application. There were two (2) persons present in opposition and two (2) person with concerns. There were two (2) persons present in support. Staff presented the revised application, with a recommendation of approval, with conditions. Stanley Phillips addressed the Commission in support of the application. He deferred his time to hear from the other parties present. Carolyn Heitman, of the John Barrow Neighborhood Association, addressed the Commission in support of the application. She explained that the neighborhood association voted to support the application. Ruth Bell, of the League of Women Voters of Pulaski County, also spoke in support of the application. She asked about the rear portion of the property on the other side of the drainage ditch. Tony Bozynski, Director of Planning and Development, noted that the area would be part of the replatted lots and be the owner’s responsibility to maintain the area. Beulah Scott, of 4504 Foster Street, addressed the Commission in opposition. She explained that she was opposed to rental property in this area. She noted that there was a petition of opposition. Dianna Wesley, of 4409 Foster Street, explained that she was not opposed to the application, but attended the meeting to obtain more information. She noted concern with non-single family uses in the neighborhood. She also expressed concern with the existing drainage ditch. Raymond Rader spoke in opposition. He noted that he spoke in opposition at the last meeting and was still opposed for the same reasons. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: D (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8946 9 Kwendeche, Mr. Phillips’ architect, explained that the area on the back side of the ditch would be maintained by the applicant. He noted that the extra landscaping proposed would enhance the area. Mr. Phillips explained that the duplex structures would be constructed to look like traditional single family housing. He noted that the construction would be compatible with the neighborhood. He explained that he had other duplex structures in the neighborhood and that he would address any problems that arise with any of his properties. There was a motion to approve the application as revised and recommended by staff. The motion passed by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. The revised application was approved. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: E FILE NO.: LA-0060 NAME: South Shackleford Road Advanced Grading Variance LOCATION: East side of S. Shackleford Road across from Clearwater Drive APPLICANT: VHV Partnership APPLICANT’S REPRESENTATIVE: Tim Daters, White-Daters & Associates AREA: Approximately 27 acres CURRENT ZONING: I-1 VARIANCES/WAIVERS REQUESTED: A variance from the Land Alteration Regulations to advance grade by clearing and grading approximately 27 acres. A. PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Applicant is requesting a variance from the Land Alteration Regulations to advance grade by clearing and grading approximately 27 acres on the east side of South Shackleford Road across from the north leg of Clearwater Drive. The variance would allow staff to issue a grading permit for the advance grading activities without imminent construction. The subject property was advanced graded about 15 years ago prior to adoption of the Land Alteration Regulations. All cut and fill material is proposed to remain on the site except for unsuitable fill, estimated not to exceed 20,000 cubic yards, will be hauled off. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS: The 27 acre property was previously cleared and graded about 15 years ago. Since that time, volunteer trees and vegetation have been established. The area requested to be advance graded is zoned I-1. The subject property is located within the Little Rock city limits. East of the subject property are platted single family residential lots in the Timberland Subdivision. Also, east of the subject property is a 29 acre property zoned PD-C. This property fronts Stagecoach Road with a residential structure and pond which is permitted for special events. West of the subject property is South Shackleford Road. Beyond South Shackleford Road are properties zoned I-1 which includes the Little Rock Wastewater Utility campus and other warehouse/office facilities. South of subject property is undeveloped R-2 zoned property. North of the subject property are platted single family residential lots in the Timberland Subdivision and undeveloped I-1 zoned property. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0060 2 C. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS: As of time of writing, staff has not been provided proof of notifications being mailed by the applicant to all adjacent property owners including those across streets and alleys. Staff has notified the John Barrow Neighborhood Association. As of the time of writing, staff has not received telephone inquiries or emails about the application. D. ENGINEERING COMMENTS: 1. Provide more explanation of the staging area. 2. Provide the volume of material to haul off and haul in to the site. 3. Provide the length of time for grading activities. 4. A grading permit in accordance with section 29-186 (c) & (d) will be required prior to any land clearing or grading activities at the site. Other than residential subdivisions, site grading and drainage plans must be submitted and approved prior to the start of construction. 5. The application fee has not been received for the variance application. 6. Storm water detention ordinance applies to this property. Show the proposed location for stormwater detention facilities on the plan. 7. If disturbed area is 1 or more acres, obtain a NPDES storm water permit from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality prior to the start of construction. 8. Damage to public and private property due to hauling operations or operation of construction related equipment from a nearby construction site shall be repaired by the responsible party prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. 9. Per Sec. 29-197(2), the grading shall be expeditiously completed in a time frame not to exceed one (1) year in duration from the time work commences to installation of all final erosion control measures and vegetation. 10. Provide visual screening of the completed area by providing undisturbed buffer strips or earthen berms. Per Sec. 29-197(3) provide line of sight illustrations from adjacent street(s) and properties for review by the Planning Commission. The width of the temporary buffer strips shall be 6% of the lot width and depth. The minimum width shall be 50 ft. where the subject property is adjacent to other properties. The minimum width shall be 80 ft. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0060 3 where the subject property is adjacent to arterial streets (Shackleford Road). In no event shall these buffers be less than the width of the permanent buffers required for the development. 11. Construction access points should be shown on the grading plan. A curved or angled road design should be provided to limit the visibility of the interior grading work from adjacent streets. Future access to cleared area should be controlled after grading activities finish and site construction occurs. 12. Provide a sketch grading and drainage plan per Section 29-186 for the entire property showing access points, buffers, and/or berms. 13. Per Sec. 29-197(11), a permanent vegetative cover of suitable perennial grass shall be established over all disturbed areas. Where indicated by soil tests, pH adjustments and addition of fertilizer may be required. 14. Per Sec. 29-197(12), all erosion and stabilization controls, including permanent vegetation and plantings and stormwater detention systems are to be maintained by the responsible part for a period of 2 years following completion of site grading. 15. Per Sec. 29-197(12), periodic mowing, generally two (2) times per year or more often if required by CLR shall be provided to encourage perennial grass growth. 16. Per Sec. 29-197(13), maintenance for the 2 year period shall be guaranteed through posting of cash, surety bond or letter of credit as referenced in Sec. 31-431(2) at the time of final inspection of the grading activities. 17. Per Sec. 29-197(14), all required federal, state, and local permits and approvals shall be obtained prior to commencement of land alteration activities. 18. Public Works staff must be contacted for inspection for final approval of site stabilization prior to acceptance and relinquishment of the maintenance bond. 19. Staked orange fencing must be installed along the open space undisturbed buffer areas during construction to prevent access to these buffer areas. 20. At the completion of the land alteration activities, a minimum six (6) inches of suitable top soil shall be placed over all disturbed areas and permanent vegetative cover established. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0060 4 21. Where is the proposed destination of the material removed from the site? E. PLANNING STAFF COMMENTS: No comments F. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE: Tim Daters of White-Daters & Associates was present representing the applicant. Staff presented an overview of the variance application. There was no further discussion of the item. The Committee then forwarded the item to the full Commission for final action. G. ANALYSIS: The subject property is approximately 27 acres. The applicant proposes to clear and grade approximately 20 acres. The property was previously cleared and graded about 15 years ago prior to the adoption of the Land Alteration Regulations. Since the original grading occurred volunteer trees and ground cover vegetation have grown. The subject property has a 100 ft. wide open space buffer along the eastern and northern property line. This open space was not cleared at the time of the original clearing and grading. The applicant has notified staff that the fill material original graded was not filled and compacted correctly. The applicant desires to excavate the previous filled material and stage that material in the designated staging area. When the material dries, it will be placed and compacted in the original excavated area. Unsuitable fill which is estimated to not exceed 20,000 cubic yards will be removed from the site. The applicant states the grading project will take between 90 and 120 days. The final grades will match the existing grades. The 100 ft. open space undisturbed buffer will be maintained along the east and north property lines. A 50 ft. undisturbed buffer will be maintained along the south property line. An 80 ft. undisturbed buffer will be maintained along the west property line adjacent to South Shackleford Road. All undisturbed buffer are still in existence and were not originally cleared and graded. The applicant proposes to construct an angled gravel construction entrance south of the north property line off South Shackleford Road. The line of site illustration shows that views of the cleared and graded area will not be visible from South Shackleford Road and adjacent properties. Erosion control devices will be used during grading operations. The property will be graded to sheet flow stormwater and not pond on the property. Maintenance of erosion controls and construction entrances will occur as needed during the grading period. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: E (Cont.) FILE NO.: LA-0060 5 The applicant proposes for all disturbed surfaces to be covered with suitable top soil, fertilized, seeded, and mulched. When vegetation is established, the erosion control devices can be removed. Orange fencing will be installed prior to beginning grading activities along all undisturbed buffers. H. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the advanced grading variance request subject to compliance with the comments and conditions as outlined in paragraph D of the agenda staff report. In addition to paragraph D, the variance request is subject to compliance with the following conditions: 1. Appropriate provisions such as the addition of water or dust retardants shall be utilized to prevent excessive particulate matter from becoming airborne; 2. At the completion of grading activities, access to the site will be obstructed to restrict unpermitted access. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JUNE 26, 2014) The applicant was present. There were no registered objectors present. Staff presented the item stating the applicant had failed to provide proper notification of abutting property owner. Staff presented a recommendation of deferral of the item to the July 24, 2014, public hearing. There was no further discussion of the item. The chair entertained a motion for approval of the item as presented by staff. The motion carried by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) The applicant was present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the staff recommendation above. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and recommended by staff, including all staff comments and conditions. The item was approved by the Planning Commission by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes, and 1 absent. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 1 FILE NO.: G-23-448 Name: West 13th Street – Right-of-Way Abandonment Location: Between Pine and Cedar Streets Owner/Applicant: City of Little Rock (Police Department)/Frank Riggins, Crafton Tull and Associates Request: To abandon the east 184 feet of the 55 foot wide West 13th Street right-of-way, located between Pine and Cedar Streets. Purpose: Future access/parking for new Little Rock Police Sub-station STAFF REVIEW: A. Public Need for this Right-of-Way: As noted in paragraph G., none of the utility companies object to the abandonment request. Several of the utilities request to retain the area of abandonment as a utility easement. The Public Works Comment is as follows: 1. Easements are required to be maintained for all storm water drainage. B. Master Street Plan: There are no Master Street Plan issues associated with this abandonment request, as the right-of-way is not classified as a Collector Street or higher. C. Characteristics of Right-of-Way Terrain: The West 13th Street right-of-way currently contains 42 feet of pavement, with curbs, gutters and sidewalks. D. Development Potential: After abandonment, the area of abandonment will be incorporated into the adjacent property to the north and south, and used as access/parking for the new Little Rock Police Sub-station. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-448 2 E. Neighborhood and Land Use Effect: The new Little Rock Police Sub-station will occupy the entire block north of the proposed abandonment area, with future parking on the south side of the proposed abandonment. The City’s Willie Hinton Resource Center is located to the northeast, with an old commercial building to the southeast. A church and residential structures are located west of the proposed abandonment area. F. Neighborhood Position: The two (2) property owners immediately west (south side of West 13th Street) of the proposed abandonment and the Stephens Area Faith, Hope, Pine to Woodrow and Forest Hills Neighborhood Associations were notified of the abandonment request. G. Effect on Public Services or Utilities: Wastewater: No objection to abandonment. Entergy: Entergy has existing overhead 3 phase distribution facilities in the area affected by the proposed street closure. We do not oppose the street closure as long as we are granted a thirty (30) foot easement (fifteen (15) feet each side of centerline) and have twenty-four (24) hour access to those facilities. Centerpoint Energy: No objection to abandonment. Retain right-of-way as a utility easement. AT&T (SBC): No objection to abandonment. Water: Central Arkansas Water maintains an existing 8-inch distribution water main within the area of the proposed right-of-way abandonment and requests that easements be retained for our existing facilities. H. Reversionary Rights: Information submitted by an abstract company shows that there were no reversionary rights found of record. I. Public Welfare and Safety Issues: Abandoning this right-of-way will have no adverse impact on the public welfare and safety. The Little Rock Fire Department has reviewed and approved the abandonment request. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-448 3 SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (JULY 2, 2014) Frank Riggins was present, representing the application. Staff briefly described the proposed abandonment, noting that there were no outstanding issues. Staff noted that none of the utility companies objected to the abandonment request. The use of the right-of-way after abandonment was briefly discussed. After the discussion, the Committee forwarded the application to the full Commission for resolution. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the request to abandon the east 184 feet of the 55 foot wide West 13th Street right-of-way located between Pine and Cedar Streets, subject to the entire area of abandonment being retained as a utility and drainage easement. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Frank Riggins was present, representing the application. There was one (1) person present with concerns. Staff presented the application with a recommendation of approval, with condition. Frank Riggins addressed the Commission in support of the application. He deferred his time to hear from the concerned person. Mason Ellis addressed the Commission. He explained that he was not opposed to the application. He noted that he did not necessarily agree with abandoning rights-of-way within a downtown-like street grid system. Mr. Riggins explained that the Little Rock Police Substation development was a substantial improvement within the 12th Street Corridor. He noted that the benefit of the right-of-way to the police substation would outweigh the street’s contribution to the overall street grid system. Commissioner Nunnley asked how the abandonment would impact the old Lee Theatre building. Tony Bozynski, Director of Planning and Development, noted that there would be no negative impact on that building. The issue was briefly discussed. Commissioner Berry noted that he supported the abandonment request, due to the police substation’s need for the right-of-way. He asked about the criteria by which a right-of-way is no longer considered a public benefit. Debra Weldon, City Attorney, noted that it was up to the Commission to determine if a right-of-way no longer served a public purpose. This issue was briefly discussed. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 1 (Cont.) FILE NO.: G-23-448 4 There was a motion to approve the application, as recommended by staff. The motion passed by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. The application was approved. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 2 FILE NO.: Z-8957 Owner: Nelley Family Limited Partnership, LLLP Applicant: W.K.R. Investments, Inc./White-Daters and Associates Location: Southeast corner of S. Shackleford Road and West 36th Street Area: 15.8215 Acres Request: Rezone from R-2 to MF-24 Purpose: Future multifamily development Existing Use: Undeveloped SURROUNDING LAND USE AND ZONING North – Multifamily development, commercial use and undeveloped property (across West 36th Street); zoned MF-12, PCD and O-3 South – Mobile home park; zoned R-2 East – Church facility and single family residences; zoned R-2 West – Undeveloped property and single family residence on large lot (across S. Shackleford Road); zoned R-2 A. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: 1. Shackleford Road is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required. Per the Master Street Plan at arterial/arterial intersections an additional 10 ft. right-of- way is required to be dedicated for a right turn lane. The dedication should be 250 ft. in length measured from the intersecting right-of-way. At such intersections, the intersecting right-of-way line shall normally have a radius of 75 to 100 ft. 2. 36th Street is classified on the Master Street Plan as a minor arterial. A dedication of right-of-way 45 feet from centerline will be required. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8957 2 3. Staff is being told the 2007 FEMA floodmaps will become effective in early 2015. Show the floodplain delineations from the 2007 FEMA floodmaps on the proposed plan. 4. In accordance with Section 31-176, floodway areas must be shown as floodway easements or be dedicated to the public. In addition, a 25 foot wide drainage and access easement is required adjacent to the floodway boundary. B. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT: The site is located on a CATA Bus Route #14 (Rosedale Route). C. PUBLIC NOTIFICATION: All owners of property located within 200 feet of the site and the John Barrow, Kensington Place and Westbrook Neighborhood Associations were notified of the public hearing. D. LAND USE ELEMENT: This request is located in the I-430 Planning District. The Land Use Plan shows Residential High Density (RH) for this property. The Residential High Density category accommodates residential development of more than twelve (12) dwelling units per acre. The applicant has applied for a rezoning from R-2 (Single Family District) to MF24 (Multifamily District 24 units per acre) to allow for the future multifamily development of the site. Master Street Plan: 36th Street and Shackleford Road are shown as Minor Arterials on the Master Street Plan. A Minor Arterial provides connections to and through an urban area and their primary function is to provide short distance travel within the urbanized area. Entrances and exits should be limited to minimize negative effects of traffic and pedestrians on 36th Street and Shackleford Road since they are both Minor Arterials. These streets may require dedication of right-of-way and may require street improvements for entrances and exits to the site. BICYCLE PLAN: A Class II Bike Lanes are shown along Shackleford Road and 36th Street. Bike Lanes provide a portion of the pavement for the sole use of bicycles. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8957 3 E. STAFF ANALYSIS: Nelley Family Limited Partnership, LLLP, owner of the 15.8215 acre property located at the southeast corner of S. Shackleford Road and West 36th Street, is requesting to rezone the property from “R-2” Single Family District and MF-24” Multifamily District. The rezoning is proposed to allow future multifamily development. The property is currently undeveloped and tree-covered. The property has varying degrees of slope. A creek runs along the property’s south property line. The property is in an area of mixed uses and zoning. A multifamily development (zoned MF-12), a small commercial use and undeveloped O-3 zoned property are located across West 36th Street to the north. A large mobile home park is located on the R-2 zoned property to the south. Undeveloped R-2 zoned property and a single family residence on a large tract are located to the west across S. Shackleford Road. Undeveloped MF-18 zoned property is located to the southwest. A church and single family residences are located on the R-2 zoned property to the east. Mixed commercial uses, zoned C-2, C-3, C-4 and PCD are located to the northwest along S. Shackleford Road. The City’s Future Land Use Plan designates this property as Residential High Density. The requested MF-24 rezoning does not require an amendment to the plan. Although the City’s Future Land Use Plan designates the property as RH, staff does not support the requested MF-24 zoning. Staff feels that MF-24 is too dense of a multifamily zoning for this general area. The zoning pattern in this area contains a lower density of multifamily zoning and use. There is an MF-12 zoned multifamily development to the north across West 36th Street. Undeveloped MF-18 zoned property is located on the west side of S. Shackleford Road, a short distance to the south. Additionally, the mobile home park to the south contains a density in the range of 12 units per acre. Staff could support MF-18 zoning for this property. Staff believes MF-18 density is a better option for this general area, while maintaining the RH Land Use Plan designation. F. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends denial of the requested MF-24 rezoning, as filed. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 2 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8957 4 PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) The applicant was present. There was one (1) person present wishing to make a comment. Staff informed the Commission that the applicant had revised the application for a rezoning to MF-18 (instead of MF-24). Staff supported the MF-18 rezoning request, as revised. Carolyn Heitman, of the John Barrow Neighborhood Association, briefly addressed the Commission prior to the vote on the Consent Agenda. She noted that she received late notice of the rezoning request. In response to a question from the Commission, staff noted that all notifications were completed in a timely manner as required. Ms. Heitman noted that the neighborhood association could meet with the applicant prior to the rezoning going to the Board of Directors. The item was placed on the Consent Agenda and approved, as revised, by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 3 FILE NO.: Z-7093-A NAME: Holy Temple COGIC Parking Lot – Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: East side of 1300 Block of Pulaski Street OWNER/APPLICANT: Holy Temple Church of God In Christ PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for construction of a church parking lot on these R-4 zoned lots. 1. SITE LOCATION: The site is located mid-block, on the east side of the 1300 Block of Pulaski Street. 2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD: The site is located on the edge of the residential neighborhood where uses transition to the non-residential development along Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive. The church and the church’s parking lot are located across Pulaski Street to the west. Single family homes are located adjacent to the north and south. A single family residence, a vacant lot and a boarded residential structure are located across the alley to the east. Other uses in the immediate are include other churches, office, institutional and commercial uses. With proper attention to screening and landscaping, the proposed parking lot should be compatible with use in the area. Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site and the Downtown Neighborhood Association. 3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING: The proposed parking lot will contain 26 spaces. A single driveway will provide access off of Pulaski Street. The alley to the rear of the site will be utilized to provide circulation for vehicles through the parking lot. The parking lot spaces and driveways comply with Ordinance standards for 45 degree parking on a one-way drive. 4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS: Site plan must comply with the City’s minimal landscape and buffer ordinance requirements. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7093-A 2 A land use buffer will be required when an adjacent property has a dissimilar use of a more restrictive nature. As a component of all land use buffer requirements, opaque screening, whether a fence or other device, a minimum of six (6) feet in height shall be required upon the property line side of the buffer. A minimum of seventy (70) percent of the land use buffer shall be undisturbed. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement. The plantings, existing and purposed, shall be provided within the landscape ordinance of the city, section 15-81. The property to the north, south, and east are zoned R-4 therefore, a minimum nine (9) foot wide buffer is required along these property lines. The property is located in the City’s designated mature area. A 25% reduction of the buffer requirements is acceptable. Eight percent (8%) of the vehicular use area must be designated for green space; this green space needs to be evenly distributed throughout the parking area(s). The minimum size of an interior landscape area shall be one hundred fifty (150) square feet for developments with one hundred fifty (150) or fewer parking spaces. Interior islands must be a minimum seven and one half (7 1/2) feet in width. Trees shall be included in the interior landscape areas at the rate of one (1) tree for every twelve (12) parking spaces. Street buffers will be required at six (6) percent of the average depth of the lot. The minimum dimension shall be one-half (½) the full width requirement but in no case less than nine (9) feet. The property is located in the City’s designated mature area. A 25% reduction of the buffer requirements is acceptable. A 6.75 foot buffer is required on S. Pulaski Street. Easements cannot count toward fulfilling this requirement. The plantings, existing and purposed, shall be provided within the city’s landscape ordinance requirements. Screening requirements will need to be met for the vehicular use areas adjacent to street right-of-ways. Provide screening shrubs with an average linear spacing of not less at three (3) feet within the required landscape area. Provide trees with an average linear spacing of not less than thirty (30) feet. A perimeter planting strip is required along any side of a vehicular use area that abuts adjoining property. This strip shall be at least nine (9) feet wide. The property is located in the City’s designated mature area. A 25% reduction of the perimeter requirements is acceptable. Provide trees with an average linear spacing of not less than thirty (30) feet within the July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7093-A 3 perimeter planting strip. Provide three (3) shrubs or vines for every thirty (30) linear feet of perimeter planting strip. An irrigation system shall be required for developments of one (1) acre or larger. For developments of less than one (1) acre a there shall be a water source within seventy-five (75) feet of the plants to be irrigated. The City Beautiful Commission recommends preserving as many existing trees as feasible on this site. Credit toward fulfilling Landscape Ordinance requirements can be given when preserving trees of six (6) inch caliper or larger. 5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: 1. Repair or replace any curb and gutter or sidewalk that is damaged in the public right-of-way prior to occupancy. 2. The proposed right-of-way dedication and boundary street improvements meet Master Street Plan requirements. 3. The part of the alley adjacent to Lots 3 and 4 should be constructed per City of Little Rock street standards. 6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS: Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Entergy: Entergy does not object to this proposal. Power poles are located on the eastern edge of the property in the alley. Centerpoint Energy: No comment received. AT&T (SBC): No comment received. Water: No Objection. Fire Department: Approved as submitted. Maintain access. Building Codes Comment: No Comments. County Planning: No Comments. CATA: CATA bus routes are located two (2) blocks to the east on Chester and two (2) blocks to the west on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7093-A 4 SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (JULY 2, 2014) The applicants were present. Staff presented the item and noted little additional information was needed. In response to questions from staff, the applicants indicated a directional/informational sign might be added in the future and gates may be placed on the driveway if any problems occur with use of the parking lot. The applicants stated no new lighting was proposed at this time. They stated any lighting added in the future would comply with staff’s requirement that lighting be low-level, shielded downward and onto the site. They stated there was an existing streetlight that provided lighting for the site. Public Works and Landscape Comments were discussed. Staff stated any gate would have to be reviewed and approved by staff so that vehicles would not block the street. The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. STAFF ANALYSIS: Holy Temple Church of God In Christ is requesting approval of a conditional use permit to allow for construction of a parking lot on the two vacant R-4 zoned lots located on the east side of the 1300 Blocks of Pulaski Street (Lots 3 and 4, Block 312, Original City of Little Rock). The church is located on the west side of the 1300 Block of Pulaski. On November 29, 2001, the Commission approved a conditional use permit to allow the church to build a parking lot on one of the lots (Lot 4). That parking lot was not built. The proposed asphalt -paved parking lot will contain 26 spaces with a single driveway off of Pulaski Street. The parking will be constructed utilizing 45 degree spaces off of one-way driveways. The alley to the rear (east) will be utilized for circulation through the parking lot. Landscaping and screening will be installed to comply with Ordinance Standards. A six foot tall wood fence will be installed on the north and south perimeters of the parking lot. A directional/information sign identifying the parking lot may be added in the future. Gates may be added in the future, if any problems develop with unauthorized use of the parking lot. An existing street light currently provides light for the site. If additional lighting is added in the future, it will be low-level, shielded downward and into the site. To staff’s knowledge there are no outstanding issues. The plat/bill of assurance for the Original City of Little Rock does not address use issues. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 3 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-7093-A 5 STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the requested Conditional Use Permit subject to compliance with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the agenda staff report. 2. A six foot tall, opaque, wood screening fence is to be installed on the north and south perimeters of the site. The fence is to be built with the finished side facing outward. 3. Any site lighting added to the site is to be low-level, shielded downward and into the site. 4. Before any gates are placed on the driveways, the gate design and placement must be approved by Public Works staff. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) The applicants were present. There were no objectors present. Staff presented the item and a recommendation of approval as outlined in the “staff recommendation” above. There was no further discussion. The item was placed on the consent agenda and approved as recommended by staff by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 4 FILE NO.: Z-8950 NAME: Riggin Multi-sectional Manufactured Home Accessory Dwelling – Conditional Use Permit LOCATION: 7417 Mabelvale Cut-Off OWNER/APPLICANT: Earl and Carol Shaw/Darin and Sherry Riggin PROPOSAL: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for placement of a multi-sectional manufactured home on this R-2 zoned 3.55 acre tract. The site contains an existing site built home which is occupied by the applicant’s parents. 1. SITE LOCATION: The site is located east of Chicot Road, south of Mabelvale Cut-Off; off of a private road, Rob Roy Way. 2. COMPATIBILITY WITH NEIGHBORHOOD: A couple of site built single family residences, a vacant non-residential building and a C-3 zoned commercial building are located to the north, between this site and Mabelvale Cut-Off. An undeveloped, wooded, R-2 zoned tract is adjacent to the south. Single family homes are located to the east and further to the south. The tracts to the west contain single family homes, a City of Little Rock Fire Station and a Dollar General Store. The C-3 zoned properties to the northwest contain a Family Dollar Store, a convenience store and car wash. A mini-warehouse development was recently approved by the Commission for one of the C-3 zoned tracts. The proposed multi-sectional manufactured home is fairly isolated, being off of the road and on a 3.55 acre tract. Staff believes the proposed use should be compatible with the neighborhood. Notice of the public hearing was sent to all owners of properties located within 200 feet of the site and the Rob Roy and SWLR United for Progress Neighborhood Associations. 3. ON SITE DRIVES AND PARKING: Access to the site is via a private drive in an access easement off of Mabelvale Cut-Off. One gravel driveway provides access to the existing July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8950 2 home. A second gravel driveway provides access to the proposed new manufactured home which is to be placed in the location previously occupied by a single-wide mobile home. There is more than sufficient parking for both homes. 4. SCREENING AND BUFFERS: No Comments. 5. PUBLIC WORKS COMMENTS: No Comments. 6. UTILITY, FIRE DEPT. AND CATA COMMENTS: Wastewater: Sewer available to this project. Entergy: Entergy does not object to the location of this manufactured home. Care should be used when moving the building to this location so that overhead wires do not get snagged. Contact Entergy for any electrical service requirements once building is in place. Centerpoint Energy: No comment received. AT&T (SBC): No comment received. Water: No Objection. Fire Department: Approved as submitted. Building Codes Comment: No Comments. County Planning: No Comments. CATA: A CATA bus route is located one (1) block to the west, at Chicot and Mabelvale Cut-off. SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE COMMENT: (JULY 2, 2014) Sherry Riggin was present representing the application. Staff presented the item and noted no additional information was needed. Staff noted the proposed multi-sectional manufactured home exceeded the square footage of the existing July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8950 3 site-built home. Staff commented that in similar cases, where both homes were being occupied by family members, the smaller existing home was considered the accessory dwelling and the larger new home served as principal dwelling. Staff noted the applicant stated the new home would only be occupied by family members and would not be rented. Staff informed the applicant that placement of the home would have to comply with the siting criteria in Section 36-254 (d) (5) of the Code. Those criteria were given to the applicant. Ms. Riggin stated she had visited with the representatives of the Rob Roy and SWLR United for Progress Neighborhood Associations. The Committee determined there were no outstanding issues and forwarded the item to the full Commission. STAFF ANALYSIS: A conditional use permit is requested to allow for placement of a new, multi-sectional manufactured home on the R-2 zoned, 3.55 acre tract located at 7417 Mabelvale Cut-Off. The site contains a one-story, frame, single family home that is occupied by the applicants’ parents. The new home will allow the applicants to live closer to the parents. The existing home contains 1,250± square feet and the proposed new home contains 2,304 square feet. The conditional use permit request will allow an accessory dwelling. In similar cases where the proposed new home exceeds the square footage of the existing home and both homes are occupied by family members, the existing home has been considered the accessory dwelling. The proposed multi-sectional manufactured home is to be located in a spot on the property that was previously occupied by a single wide mobile home, that was removed several years ago. The home will have a vinyl siding exterior finish with a pitched, shingled roof. It will be underpinned with vinyl or brick. An existing driveway will provide parking area and access for the home. The manufactured home will have setbacks of 110’ on the west, 120’ on the north, 160’ on the south and 490’ from the residential neighborhood to the east. The applicant has stated in the application letter that occupancy of the home will be limited to family members and it will not be rented. To staff’s knowledge, there are no outstanding issues. The proposed home site is relatively isolated, being back off of the road on the 3.55 acre tract. Existing trees and wooded area provide separation and screening between this site and the neighborhood to the east and south. There is no bill of assurance for this acreage tract. There is no established housing type or style immediately July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8950 4 adjacent to the proposed home site. The neighborhood further to the east and south contains one-story homes of masonry construction. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the requested Conditional Use Permit subject to compliance with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in Section 6 of the agenda staff report. 2. One of the homes on the property must be occupied by the landowner as required by Section 36-252 (a) (3) of the Code. 3. Placement of the multi-sectional manufactured home must comply with the following criteria from Chapter 36, Section 36-254 (d) (5): a. A pitched roof of three (3) in twelve (12) or fourteen (14) degrees or greater. b. Removal of all transport elements. c. Permanent foundation. d. Exterior wall finished so as to be compatible with the neighborhood. e. Orientation compatible with placement of adjacent structures. f. Underpinning with permanent materials. g. All homes shall be multi-sectional. h. Off-street parking per single family dwelling standard. 4. Occupancy of the home will be restricted to family members only and there will be no rental of the home. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Sherry Riggin was present, representing the application. There were no objectors present. The application was mistakenly pulled from the Consent Agenda due to a possible card in opposition. The Chairman noted that there was no card in opposition to this item. Staff presented the item with a recommendation of approval with conditions. There was no further discussion. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 4 (Cont.) FILE NO.: Z-8950 5 There was a motion to approve the conditional use permit, as recommended by staff. The motion passed by a vote of 10 ayes, 0 noes and 1 absent. The application was approved. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 5 FILE NO.: MSP14-04 Name: Master Street Plan Amendment – Bicycle Plan Map Update Location: Jurisdiction wide Request: To upgrade and add 8 Bike Lanes, 2 Bike Paths and several Bike Routes Source: Staff PROPOSAL / REQUEST: To amend the Master Street Plan, Bike Plan Sections to upgrade LaMarche Drive, Taylor Loop Road, Main Street (6th to Roosevelt), 7th Street (Rock to Woodrow) to Bike Lanes (Class II) and add Louisiana and Center (Markham to I-630), Chester (Roosevelt to Daisy Bates Drive), 9th Street (I-30 to Main) as Bike Lanes (Class II) and to add Coleman Creek (19th to Lee Avenue), Rail Road alignment (3rd Street to 65th Street) and Rose Creek (3rd Street to River Trail) as Bike Paths (Class I) and to add State Street (I-630 to River Trail), Commerce (Daisy Bates to 9th Street), Sherman (9th Street to 6th Street) as Bike Routes (Class III). ANALYSIS: At the end of 2013, the Bike Friendly Committee of Little Rock recommended a package of changes to the Little Rock Bike Plan. Staff reviewed the requests and set a series of public meetings to discuss the Bike Lane and Path changes proposed by the Committee. These meetings were held in February and March 2014. Written comments were received prior, during and after these meetings. Based on these comments received as well as those expressed at the meetings, a final package of changes was developed to present for amendment. New proposed Class I – Bike Paths are suggested along two creeks and a railroad right-of-way. (These routes are separate bicycle only facilities.) There are three segments proposed. The longest is along the former railroad right-of-way from Interstate Park around the State Fair grounds to 7th Street where the existing proposed Bike Path is shown. This is part of a multi-county bike path that has been proposed from Little Rock to Hot Springs (the ‘Southwest Trail’). The remaining portions for that Path within Little Rock’s jurisdiction are already represented on the Little Rock Bike Master Plan. A second segment would continue along Rose Creek from 3rd Street (where the existing proposed Path ends) to the River Trail. This has been reviewed by the Little Rock Parks Department and advocated by the Capitol View Stifft Station Neighborhood organization for several years. The remaining new Bike Route is along Coleman Creek from 20th Street (where a proposed Bike Route ends from UALR) to Lee Avenue in Hillcrest. This proposal would make a north –south connection from Hillcrest to the Fourche Bottoms via the UALR campus. Due to development along Coleman Creek, the actual alignment of the ‘Path’ may follow existing streets and street right-of- July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: MSP14-04 2 way parallel to the creek itself. (The Creek is in a concrete ‘U’ box with development to the open box from 20th to 12th Streets.) This amendment places a corridor on the Plan as a north-south bicycle route through central Little Rock. The Class II – Bike Lane proposals are along streets with the majority of the changes are in the downtown area. These changes are either an upgrade of a proposed Class III - Bike Route to Class II - Bike Lane or the addition of a Class II – Bike Lane. The proposal is not to enlarge any of these streets but rather to add a bicycle lane on the existing street using either a ‘road diet’ (changing from four lanes to three) or removal of parking on one-side. The decision on how the bike lanes would be implemented will be made at the time a street is re-surfaced or re-constructed. There are six new proposed Class II (Bike Lane) shown in central/downtown Little Rock. Four are north-south lanes and two are east-west lanes. Main Street has been re-striped with Bike Lanes from 7th Street to Roosevelt Road. This amendment recognizes the already implemented Class II –Bike Lanes. Part of this Bike Lane is new Class II (south 17th Street) and part is upgraded from a Class III (north of 17th Street) on the Plan Map. Main Street was re-striped with a ‘road diet’ when it was re-surfaced. Chester is proposed to be added as a Class II – Bike Lane. The Bike Lane passes Philander Smith College, Dunbar Recreation Center, Dunbar Middle, Gibbs Elementary and Williams Library. Chester had an average-daily-volume of 7900 in 2012 at 11th Street. The street is primarily residential single-family south of Wright Avenue and is mixed institutional-residential uses between Daisy Gatson Bates Drive and Wright Avenue. Chester is a four-lane street with no parking, at the current volumes Chester is a good candidate for a ‘Street Diet’, conversion to a three-lane road with parking or bike lanes. At such time as Chester is re-surfaced or reconstructed, a ‘road diet’ will be considered. After public input as part of the resurfacing project of Chester, re-stripping from four-lanes to three-lanes may be implemented. Both Center and Louisiana, north of Interstate 630 are one-way streets with on-street parking allowed along much of the roads. Both have two travel-lanes and have a volume of 3900 and 2400 respectively near Capitol. As part of the City re-surfacing program or if either street is re-constructed the City will have a meeting to review the implementation of a Bike Lane on these roads - either a ‘Street Diet’, the reduction of on-street parking or other method of implementation will be determined. (The two-way portion of Louisiana would be a Class III – Bike Route, due in part to the limitations of the road with two-way traffic, access to adjacent property, parking, etc.). The two east-west roads proposed for Bike Lane designations are 9th Street and 7th Street. 9th Street, east of Main Street is three lanes for the first three blocks and then four lanes to Interstate 30. East 9th Street through this corridor is less than 40-feet in width, making four-lanes almost unusable as four separate lanes. MacArthur Park and a private school can be found along this segment of 9th Street as well as homes and a fire station. At the time of re-surfacing or reconstruction of East 9th Street, the design of July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: MSP14-04 3 bicycle facilities will be included. It may be necessary for sharrows rather than Bike Lanes along 9th Street due to limitations on widening the street. 7th Street is currently shown on the Plan as a Class III Bike Route. The proposed map change is west of Main Street upgrading to a Class II – Bike Lanes. Since the road currently is two vehicular lanes with parking on both sides for much of its length (Main to Woodrow), the proposal would be to have a Bike Lane in one-direction and a Bike Route (sharrows) in the other so as not to impact parking on both sides of the road. Traffic volumes range from 11,000 at the State Capitol to 3800 at the railroad underpass. West of the Capitol Complex, there might be room for Bike Lanes in both directions. At the time of reconstruction or resurfacing design decisions would be made. In west Little Rock, LaMarche Drive (Chenal Drive to Taylor Loop Road) and Taylor Loop Road (LaMarche Drive to Rahling Road) are proposed to be upgraded from Class III to Class II – Bike Lanes in both directions. Both roads are proposed to be constructed as 36-foot wide roads (with or without bicycle facilities). The proposal for each road is to continue to have a vehicular travel-lane in each direction with no parking on the road (as is the case today). The City of Little Rock is constructing the connection for LaMarche Drive at this time and is scheduled to widen Taylor Loop Road. As part of the construction projects, the City intends to ‘mark’ both roads with Bike Lanes and two-lanes of vehicular traffic. The Class III – Bike Routes proposed to be added to the Bike Plan are all in the downtown (MacArthur Park Neighborhood) area. They are Commerce from 17th Street to 9th Street, Sherman from 9th Street to 6th Street, 7th Street from Cumberland to Sherman and State I-630 to River Trail. Commerce Street would connect the neighborhoods south of the Interstate to MacArthur Park and on to the River Trail. Sherman takes on north of MacArthur Park to the existing bike network at Capital Avenue (and on to the River Trail). The East 7th Street route continues that route from Main Street on to Sherman. NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS: Notices were sent to the City’s contact list for ordinance amendments. This list includes engineers, developers and neighborhood organizations. In addition the following neighborhood associations were notified: Capitol View/Stiff Station, Central High, Downtown, Downtown Little Rock Partnership, Hillcrest, MacArthur Park POA, Oak Forest, Pettaway, South End, Southend Coalition, Whitmore Circle, and Wright Avenue. Over 260 property owners adjacent to proposed Class I or II bike routes received letters informing them of the change and meeting. Staff has received several contacts as a result of the mailing. Most of the comments are related to the possible loss of parking in downtown. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff believes the change is appropriate. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: MSP14-04 4 PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Walter Malone, Planning Staff reviewed the proposed changes starting with the Class I – Bike Paths, then Class II- Bike Lanes and Class III – Bike Routes. Jeremy Lewno, Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator for the City, indicated he was available to answer any question and also indicated bicycling was becoming more than just recreational use and the City needed to help provide safer routes for bicycles for both recreational and transportation related trips. The goal is to make all streets safer for all modes of transportation. Chris East, Studio Main and live/work downtown, expressed support for the Bike Plan changes. Each of the roads have 60-foot right-of-ways and it is possible to have streets with bike lanes on such roads. The proposal for 7th Street has been tested with a ‘Pop-up’ in 2013. Temporary Bike Lanes were used. With Bike Lanes, cars know to look for bicycles which increases safety for bicycles. When bicyclists know there are safe places to travel, more people will bike. Mason Ellis, biker and downtown worker/resident, stated that the downtown environment had been built as a multifunctional transportation system (walking, horses, bikes, etc). Now it has been limited to just cars. As a resident of downtown he looks for walking and bicycle options. The addition of these proposals to the plan adds a good amenity for downtown. It is Mr. Ellis hope that the plan is what we can come to for Little Rock. Ed Sergeant, SOMO Board and Governor Mansion District resident, advocated alternative forms on Chester and 9th Streets. These changes will ‘calm’ the streets to make them easier to cross by pedestrians. Supports of these changes are Gibbs School, Dunbar Middle School, Dunbar Recreation Center, William Library, Art Study, Quapaw Quarter Association along Chester, and St Edwards School and Little Rock Parks along 9th Street. Dale Aclin, Stephens Building, expressed concern about the Bike Lanes on Center and Louisiana in the two blocks south of Markham. There is a lot of traffic on these roads and it would not connect to anything else for bicyclists. He also expressed concern with the hotel related traffic along Markham and non-local drivers. Mr. Malone indicated that Louisiana from 4th Street to Markham is two-way and in this section Sharrows would be used rather than Bike Lanes. Staff would amend the package to show a Class II along Louisiana from 4th to Markham. Commissioner Nunnley, stated that Staff needed to explain to the residents what was happening and the advantages. If the local residents’ concerns and issues are not addressed, there will be a ‘firestorm’. There needs to be discussions and meetings with the local residents and education efforts made. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 5 (Cont.) FILE NO.: MSP14-04 5 Commissioner Berry indicated that there had been some meetings to talk with residents and owners. There was some discussion about traffic and parking issues and the need for education moving forward so that the City understands the concerns and residents/owners understand the impacts and advantages. Tony Bozynski, Director of Planning & Development, indicated there had been meetings on the package of changes and with the 3/8 cent funded projects there would be an additional meeting with residents before any work was done. (This would be true for Chester Street). Commissioner May reminded the Commission of the ‘Denver Plan’ traffic signal system in downtown Little Rock and how that had made it easier for pedestrians. Education is key, people always have concerns when change is involved. Chairman Fountain asked the speakers who worked downtown how they were about to bike to work and wear a suit for work. There was some discussion about lockers and shower facilities. A motion was made to approve the package as amended without Center Street. By a vote of 10 for 0 against and 1 absent the motion was approved. A motion was made to approve the Bike Lane on Center Street, by a vote of 9 for, 0 against, 1 recusal and 1 absent the motion was approved. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 FILE NO.: LU14-01 Name: Northwest Area Land Use Plan Amendment Location: West of Interstate-430, north of Kanis Road/Chenal Parkway to the County Line Request: Various Source: Staff PROPOSAL / REQUEST: As part of the City’s efforts to keep the Future Land Use Plan current, Staff reviewed the Plan in the area west of Interstate 430, north of Kanis Road/Chenal Parkway to the County Line. The package has thirteen areas with changes; each area has from one to four changes: Area 1 is generally from Rahling Road to Chenal Parkway, east of Kirk Road. There are four changes in this area. Change 01A is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The second change (01B) is from Residential Medium Density to Suburban Office. The Suburban Office category shall provide for low intensity development of office or office parks in close proximity to lower density residential areas to assure compatibility. A Planned Zoning District is required. The third change (01C) is from Residential Low Density, Residential High Density, Residential Medium Density and Neighborhood Commercial to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The fourth change (01D) is from Neighborhood Commercial to Commercial. The Commercial category includes a broad range of retail and wholesale sales of products, personal and professional services, and general business activities. Commercial activities vary in type and scale, depending on the trade area that they serve. Area 2 is generally from Chenal Parkway to Kanis Road, either side of Rahling Road. There are four changes proposed in this area. Change 02A is from Residential Low Density to Residential High Density. Residential High Density accommodates residential development of more than twelve (12) dwelling units per acre. The second change (02B) is from Commercial to Office. Office represents services provided directly to consumers (e.g., legal, financial, medical) as well as general offices which support more basic economic activities. The third change (02C) is from Mixed Use to Office. Office represents services provided directly to consumers (e.g., legal, financial, medical) as well as general offices which support more basic economic activities. The fourth July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 2 change (02D) is from Residential Low Density to Suburban Office. The Suburban Office category shall provide for low intensity development of office or office parks in close proximity to lower density residential areas to assure compatibility. A Planned Zoning District is required. Area 3 is an area south of Denny Road, west of Wildwood Lane. Change 03 is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 4 is between Cantrell Road and Pleasant Forest Drive, west of Rodney Parham Road. There are three changes in this area. Change 04A is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The second change (04B) is from Mixed Use to Commercial The Commercial category includes a broad range of retail and wholesale sales of products, personal and professional services, and general business activities. Commercial activities vary in type and scale, depending on the trade area that they serve. The third change (04C) is from Office to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 5 is either side of Cantrell Road at Sam Peck Road. There are two changes in this area. Both areas change 05A and 05B are from Transition to Office. Office represents services provided directly to consumers (e.g., legal, financial, medical) as well as general offices which support more basic economic activities. Area 6 is either side of Taylor Loop/Rahling Road, from Cantrell Road to Pilot Lane. There are three changes in this area. Change 06A is from Transition to Suburban Office. The Suburban Office category shall provide for low intensity development of office or office parks in close proximity to lower density residential areas to assure compatibility. A Planned Zoning District is required. The second change (06B) is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The third change (06C) is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 7 is either side of Forest Land, west of LaMarche Drive. Both areas of change are proposed to be Public Institutional. Change area 07A is currently Transition along Cantrell Road and Residential Low Density along Forest Lane. Change area 07B is Low Density Residential. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 3 that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 8 is southwest of Valley Ranch Drive and Patrick Country Road. Change 08 is from Office to Residential Low Density. Residential Low Density provides for single family homes at densities not to exceed 6 units per acre. Such residential development is typically characterized by conventional single family homes, but may include patio or garden homes and cluster homes, provided that the density remain less than 6 units per acre. Area 9 is the area from Presley Drive to Divide Parkway, Morgan Cemetery Road to Hudson Road. There are three changes in this area. Change 09A is from Residential High Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The second change (09B) is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. The third change (09C) is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 10 is an area south of Rodney Parham Road and east of Green Mountain Drive. Change 10 is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. Area 11 is either side of Hinson Road, from Pebble Beach Drive to Beckenham Drive. There are two changes in this area. Change 11A is from Residential Medium Density to Residential Low Density. Residential Low Density provides for single family homes at densities not to exceed 6 units per acre. Such residential development is typically characterized by conventional single family homes, but may include patio or garden homes and cluster homes, provided that the density remain less than 6 units per acre. Change 11B is from Residential High Density to Residential Low Density. Residential Low Density provides for single family homes at densities not to exceed 6 units per acre. Such residential development is typically characterized by conventional single family homes, but may include patio or garden homes and cluster homes, provided that the density remain less than 6 units per acre. Area 12 is west of Napa Valley Drive, from Rainwood Road to Ridgehaven Road. Change 12 is from Residential High Density to Residential Low Density. Residential Low Density provides for single family homes at densities not to exceed 6 units per acre. Such residential development is typically characterized by conventional single July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 4 family homes, but may include patio or garden homes and cluster homes, provided that the density remain less than 6 units per acre. Area 13 is between Lake Maumelle and Barrett Road, west of Highway 300. Change 13 is from Residential Low Density to Public Institutional. Public Institutional includes public and quasi-public facilities that provide a variety of services to the community such as schools, libraries, fire stations, churches, utility substations, and hospitals. ANALYSIS: The Planning and Development staff began reviewing this area in January 2014. The existing development pattern, as well as existing zoning and recent re-classification actions were reviewed. After field visits and staff discussions, letters were sent to all neighborhood associations in the area asking for suggested changes in the area. Only a couple informational calls were received. Staff then developed a package of changes and affected property owners identified. All the affected property owners were contacted about the possibility of changing the Land Use Plan designation of their property in April 2014. Staff received numerous phone calls and email responses to that letter notifying them of the proposed changes. Most contacts were informational only. There were several written and verbal comments in support of the change in ‘their’ respective area. In addition, there were two written requests not to make the suggested change for their property (one north of Cantrell Road, west of Viewpoint Cove and the second south of Cantrell Road, east of Katillus Road. (Both of these areas were changes from Transition to Office.) The final package of changes was developed and property owners together with neighborhood associations were contacted in late June about the public hearing to consider the changes. Staff believes this package of changes is a ‘clean-up’ to more accurately reflect the current and likely future development pattern in the area of the changes. This resulting ‘package’ of changes should create a more accurate Future Land Use Plan that all can use, whether public or private. Area 1 is made up of several areas generally from Rahling Road to Chenal Parkway, east of Kirk Road. To the east is R-2 (Single Family) with some R-3 (Single Family) zoning and is mostly developed with single-family homes. To the north, west and south are C-1, (Neighborhood Commercial), C-2 (Community Shopping), C-3 (General Commercial), several PCD and PDC (Planned Commercial Districts) some developed and others vacant land, O-3 (General Office) and O-2 (Office and Institutional) both development and vacant land and MF-18 (Multifamily) mostly developed with apartments. Change ‘A’ is north of Rahling Road at Kirk Road and is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit for a church. There is an existing church on the site; the change would be to recognize the existing use with a Public Institutional designation. Change ‘B’ is northeast of the Kirk Road – Wellington Village Road intersection and is currently vacant zoned POD (Planned Office District). The proposal is to develop small office buildings on this site. The Land Use Plan change is to July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 5 recognize the recently approved use pattern for this site. Change ‘C’ is southeast of the Kirk Road-Wellington Village Road intersection and is zoned MF-18 (Multifamily), C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) and R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use for a Church which exists on the site. The change would be to recognize the existing use with a Public Institutional designation. Change ‘D’ is the northwest corner of Wellington Hills Road and Chenal Parkway and is zoned with PCD and PDC (Planned Commercial Districts). There are three commercial uses –drug store, fast-food, and tire store. With Commercial at the other corners of this intersection and the area developed commercial, the proposal is to show this area as Commercial on the Plan. Area 2 is made up of several areas generally from Chenal Parkway to Kanis Road, either side of Rahling Road. To the west and south is R-2 (Single Family) zoning with subdivisions to the west and larger tract developments to the south. To the north and east is C-3 (General Commercial), C-2 (Community Shopping), O-2 (Office and Institutional) and PCDs (Planned Commercial Districts). The areas are partially developed with commercial and office developments. Change area ‘A’ is north of Rahling Road along the west side of Chenal Parkway and is zoned PD-R (Planned District Residential) with a multi-story condominium development. The change to Residential High Density would reflect the development in place. Change area ‘B’ is the north west corner of Rahling Road and Chenal Parkway and is zoned C-3 (General Commercial) and has a multi-story office building on it. The change to Office on the Plan would reflect the current and likely future use of the land. Change area ‘C’ is east of Rahling Road, between St. Vincent Way and Kanis Road. It is zoned POD (Planned Office District) and has a multi-story office building on it with additional building proposed. The existing and future uses proposed for the area are medical related office, clinics and care facilities. Change area ‘D’ is southeast of Denny-Kanis Roads intersection and is zoned PCD (Planned Commercial District), POD (Planned Office District) and R-2 (Single Family). There is a home as well as two office developments in place in this area. Based on the existing uses and zoning pattern the most likely future development pattern of this area is Suburban Office. Area 3 is south of Denny Road, west of Wildwood Lane In all directions is R-2 (Single Family) zoned land. There is an area of POD (Planned Office District) zoning to the east for Wildwood Center for Performing Art. The land to the north is partially developed with homes. To the south and west are large tracts of vacant land with a few homes. The change area is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit and is an elementary school. The school is likely to continue on this site into the future, thus a Public Institutional designation would be appropriate. Area 4 is between Cantrell Road and Pleasant Forest Drive, west of Rodney Parham Road. To the south and southwest is zoned R-2 (Single Family), with homes in subdivisions. To the east is O-2 (Office and Institutional) and O-3 (General Office) zoned land, mostly developed as office buildings. To the north are PCDs (Planned Commercial Districts) with R-2 (Single Family) behind. The PCDs are mostly developed July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 6 with retail uses and the R-2 is a single-family subdivision. Change area ‘A’ west of Fairview Road and is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit. There is a religious facility on the site, thus Public Institutional is more appropriate for this site. Change area ‘B’ is south of Cantrell Road between Fairview Road and Woodland Heights Road and is zoned PCD (Planned Commercial District). The area is part of a retail commercial center. This development pattern is not likely to change making a Commercial designation more appropriate. Change area ‘C’ is southwest of Pleasant Ridge Road and Woodland Heights Road and is zoned O-2 (Office and Institutional) and O-3 (General Office). It is owned by Easter Seal Society and used for their offices and training facilities. This is not likely to change in the future making a Public Institutional designation more appropriate to the use. Area 5 is either side of Cantrell Road at Sam Peck Road. To the south and north is R-2 (Single Family) zoned land with homes. Along Cantrell Road around the change area are several Planned Office District and Planned District Office sites with office buildings. There are two large apartment complexes south of Cantrell Road zoned MF-12 (Multifamily and PDR (Planned District Residential). To the northwest is an area of PR (Park) zoning with a city park located on that site. Change area ‘A’ is either side of Viewpointe Cove and is zoned O-3 (General Office) and POD (Planned Office District) all with office building on the tracts. There is also one tract of R-2 (Single Family) zoned land which is vacant. Since this area is already developed with office structures and is not likely to change in the future the designation of Office is more appropriate. Change area ‘B’ is south of Cantrell Road and west of Sam Peck Road. The area is zoned POD (Planned Office District). There are two office buildings (one two-story and one multi- story) and a bank in the change area. The area is developed and not likely to change in nature making Office a better designation for this area. Area 6 is several areas either side of Taylor Loop/Rahling Road from Cantrell Road to Pilot Lane. The surrounding areas are mostly zoned R-2 (Single Family). To the south, east and west is R-2 (Single Family) with subdivisions. There is an area of PR (Park) zoning to the west for the Taylor Loop Park along Taylor Loop Creek. To the north are several PCDs and PDCs (Planned Commercial Districts), and PODs (Planned Office Districts). These sites are developed with retail uses, offices and banks. Change area ‘A’ is west of Taylor Loop Road, south of Cantrell Road and is zoned POD (Planned Office District), PCD (Planned Commercial District) and PDO (Planned District Office) and has a dentist office, animal clinic and office. These uses are not likely to change in the future making Suburban Office use more appropriate for the use and zoning pattern. Change area ‘B’ is north east of Hinson-Taylor Loop Roads intersection and is zoned R- 2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit. There is a church on the site and any change is use is unlikely, making the designation of Public Institutional more appropriate. Change area ‘C’ is either side of Rahling Road south of Taylor Loop Road and is R-2 (Single Family) with Conditional Use Permits. There is a church east of Rahling Road and a fire station west of Rahling Road. Neither of these uses is likely to change in the future making the designation of Public Institutional more appropriate. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 7 Area 7 is either side of Forest Lane, west of LaMarche Drive. The surrounding area is mostly zoned R-2 (Single Family) with several PDR (Planned Residential Districts) and mostly developed with homes. There are several PODs (Planned Office Districts) along Cantrell Road. Those sites south of Cantrell Road are developed with office uses and the one north of Cantrell Road is vacant land. Change area 07A is north of Forest Land and is zoned R-2 Single Family) with a conditional use permit. An elementary school has been built on this site. South of Forest Lane area 07B is zoned R-2 (Single Family) and is part of the Little Rock West Assembly of God church campus. Neither of these uses is likely to change in the future making the Public Institutional designation appropriate for both areas. Area 8 is southwest of the Valley Ranch Drive-Patrick Country Road intersection. To the east is MF-18 (Multifamily) zoned land with an apartment complex. To the north and west is O-3 (General Office) which is undeveloped to the north and has a rehabilitation center to the west. Further to the north is MF-12 (Multifamily) land that is vacant. To the south is R-2 (Single Family) with homes beyond that are several PCDs (Planned Commercial Districts) with businesses. The area of change is zoned PDR (Planned District Residential) and is a partially developed subdivision. Homes continue to be permitted in this subdivision and it is likely that it will be fully developed with homes in the future. A change to Residential Low Density would be a more accurate representation of this area on the Land Use Plan. Area 9 is several areas between Presley Drive and Divide Parkway, Morgan Cemetery Road and Hudson Road both inside and outside the City Limits. Most of the surrounding land is zoned R-2 (Single Family) and is either developed with large-lot single-family or is vacant. There is a small commercially zoned area at Pinnacle and Highway 300 zoned C-1, Neighborhood Commercial, and a PCD, Planned Commercial District with a convenience store and retail shops. Change area ‘A’ is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit and developed as a church. This area is likely to continue with this development pattern making Public Institutional more appropriate. Change area ‘B’ is south of West Pinnacle Road, west of Highway 300. The land is zoned R-2 (Single Family) and there is a cemetery located on the land. This use is consistent with the Public Institutional Use classification. Change area ‘C’ is along the north of Divide Parkway, east of West Ridge Road. The land is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with a Conditional Use Permit and is developed as a wastewater treatment facility (owned by the Little Rock Wastewater Utility). This use is not likely to change in the mid-term making the Public Institutional classification a better representation. Area 10 is south of Rodney Parham Road, east of Green Mountain Drive. To the south the land is zoned R-5 (Urban Residential) and MF-24 (Multifamily) with apartment complexes. To the north, east and west is zoned C-2 (Community Shopping), C-3 (General Commercial) and C-4 (Open Display Commercial) with various retail uses on the parcels. The area of change is zoned R-2 (Single Family) and is a cemetery. This July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 8 is not likely to change in the future making Public Institutional a better representation of the current and likely future development pattern of this land. Area 11 is two areas along Hinson Road between Pebble Beach and Beckenham Drives. All the surrounding area is zoned R-2 (Single Family) with subdivisions. There is an area of R-4(Two-Family) zoning with a Conditional Use Permit for a golf course to the east. Change area ‘A’ is west of Hinson Road, either side of Dorado Beach Drive and is zoned PDR (Planned District Residential) and is mostly developed with single- family homes. This development pattern is not likely to change in the future making the Residential Low Density designation more appropriate. Change area ‘B’ is located either side of Hinson Road, north of Beckenham Drive and is zoned MF-6 (Multifamily), and PRD (Planned Residential District). The area is developed with single family homes both attached and detached. This is not likely to change in the future making the Residential Low Density designation more appropriate. Area 12 is along the west side of Napa Valley Road from Rainwood Road to Ridgehaven Road. To the northwest is an area of O-2 (Office and Institutional) zoning with a library, offices and a private school. To the north and south are R-2 (Single Family) zoned tracts with Conditional Use Permits for churches. Further to the south is an area of MF-18 (Multifamily) zoning with apartment complexes. To the west are two PRD (Planned Residential Districts) with single-family homes. The remaining areas are R-2 (Single Family) with subdivisions. The area of change is zoned MF-12 (Multifamily), R-2 (Single Family) and PRD (Planned Residential District) with single-family homes. This single-family development pattern is not likely to change in the future making the Residential Low Density designation more appropriate. Area 13 is two areas between Lake Maumelle and Barrett Road, west of Highway 300. This area is outside the City Limits but within the City of Little Rock’s zoning jurisdiction. To the north is zoned OS (Open Space) and is owned by Central Arkansas Water (CAW). This is Lake Maumelle (the drinking water for most of central Arkansas) and the lands owned by CAW south of the Lake. To the south, east and west is R-2 (Single Family) zoning, with large tracts both vacant and single-family homes. There is one PDC (Planned Commercial District) with a single-family home. The area of change is zoned R-2 (Single Family) and is vacant (wooded). This is land that CAW has acquired over the last two decades to further protect the watershed of Lake Maumelle, the drinking water supply. CAW intends to continue to own the property and limit uses and advises so as to not affect Lake Maumelle. Staff believes that since this land has been added to CAW’s holdings to protect the watershed, Public Institutional Use would be appropriate for the Land Use Plan designation. In response to the second notice mailed June 23, 2014, Staff received a few informational phone calls. July 24, 2014 ITEM NO.: 6 (Cont.) FILE NO.: LU14-01 9 NEIGHBORHOOD COMMENTS: Notices were sent to the following neighborhood associations: Bayonne Place POA, Beverly Hills POA, Birchwood, Carriage Creek POA, Chalamont POA, Chenal Ridge POA, Chevaux Court POA, Duquesne Place POA, Glen Eagles POA, Graystone Manor, Eagle Point POA, Hillsborough POA, Hunters Cover POA, Johnson Ranch, Margeaux POA, Marlowe Manor POA, Maywood Manor, Montagne Court POA, Panky Community Improvement Assoc., Piedmont, Pinnacle Valley, Pleasant Valley POA, Pleasant Forest, Pleasantree Recreation Association, Rainwood Cover POA, River Valley POA, St. Charles Community, The Villages of Wellington, Tulley Cove, Walnut Valley POA, Walton Heights Candlewood POA, Westbury, Westchester Heatherbrae POA, Woodland Hills Aspen Highlands, and Coalition of West Little Rock and Chenal Properties. Letters were sent to approximately 270 property owners in the area. Staff has received several informational calls from area residents as a result of the initial mailing in April. These were mostly informational. There was a request to not proceed in three areas, which staff is honoring. The second mailing on June 23 was sent to approximately 260 property owners and the same neighborhood associations to notify them of the public hearing. Staff received a few phone informational calls. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: This package of amendments is designed to make the Future Land Use Plan more representative of current and likely mid-term future uses for this area. Staff recommends the approval of the package of changes. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: (JULY 24, 2014) Walter Malone, Planning Staff, reviewed each of the proposed changes in the package of Land Use Plan amendments. There was a question about the change in Pinnacle to Public Institution for a church on Highway 300. Mr. Malone indicated that the change was just for the ownership of the church. A motion was made to approve the package as presented. By a vote of 10 for 0 against and 1 absent the motion was approved. PLANNING COMMISSION VOTE RECORD DATE Zq, 20 l MEMBER BELT, JENNIFER MARTINEZ BERRY, CRAIG BROCK, TOM BUBBUS, ALAN BYNUM, BUELAH COX, KEITH DILLON, JANET FINNEY, REBECCA FOUNTAIN, KEITH MAY, BILL B. NUNNLEY, OBRAY JR. MEMBER BELT, JENNIFER MARTINEZ BERRY, CRAIG BROCK, TOM BUBBUS, ALAN BYNUM, BUELAH COX, KEITH DILLON, JANET FINNEY, REBECCA FOUNTAIN, KEITH MAY, BILL B. NUNNLEY, OBRAY JR. ��AYE NAYE ABSENT TAIN 7K RECUSE LJT�4 6- � e?-- E� 103q- H AUV645;1 Meeting Adjourned P.M. Elf July 24, 2014 There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m. Date Chairman